Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The study aims to investigate the impact of social media usage on mental health among young adults. Social media has become an integral part of daily life for many individuals, particularly young adults who are heavy users of platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Snapchat. While social media offers various benefits such as connectivity, information sharing, and social support, there is growing concern about its potential negative effects on mental health. The research will employ a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to gather comprehensive data on social media usage patterns and their relationship to mental health outcomes. The quantitative component will involve administering standardized mental health assessments to measure anxiety, depression, and stress levels among participants, while also collecting data on their social media habits, including frequency of use, types of content consumed, and interactions with others online. In parallel, qualitative interviews will be conducted to explore in-depth the experiences and perceptions of young adults regarding social media and its impact on their mental well-being. These interviews will provide valuable insights into the subjective aspects of social media use, shedding light on the emotional responses, coping strategies, and perceived benefits or harms associated with online interactions. The study aims to uncover the complex interplay between social media engagement and mental health outcomes, considering factors such as self-esteem, social comparison, cyberbullying, FOMO (fear of missing out), and online social support. By integrating both quantitative and qualitative data, the research seeks to offer a holistic understanding of how social media influences the psychological well-being of young adults. The findings of this study are expected to contribute to the existing body of literature on social media and mental health, providing insights that can inform interventions and strategies to promote positive online behaviors and protect against potential harms. Ultimately, the research intends to raise awareness about the importance of mindful social media use and foster discussions on how individuals, platform developers, and policymakers can collaborate to create a healthier digital environment for young adults.

Thesis Overview